Blood donor celebrates donation milestone

MARQUETTE — A blood donor in the U.P. has reached a donation milestone and is encouraging others to get out there and do the same.

Mark Johnson has been donating blood for 35 years. Every year, he gives 8 whole blood donations and 24 platelets. Mark first got interested in donating blood when he found out he could help his community.

All together, Mark has donated over 850 times. Everyone at the U.P. Regional Blood Center greatly appreciates Mark’s donations and hope to see him for many years to come.

“I know my blood is staying up here and helping someone in the U.P. and I enjoy coming here. It’s helping someone out in the U.P., it’s just a good thing to do and it makes you feel good too,” said Blood Donor, Mark Johnson.

Mark plans to keep donating blood in the future for as long as he can. He has gotten to know the technicians quite well and a special potluck was held today in honor of his 35th anniversary of donating blood.